Westwood, Mass. - November 2, 2020 - The NEWMAC Presidents Council has continued to monitor the effects of COVID-19 on our institutions and community during the fall semester and remain steadfast that the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and greater community remain paramount and the focus of our concerns.
Due to the shift in academic calendars, specifically the later start than normal of the second term and the majority of institutions imposing restrictions of both visitors on campus and travel off campus in an effort to reduce the potential spread and exposure of COVID-19, the Presidents have unanimously decided to suspend conference play and championships for winter sports. This includes men's and women's basketball and men's and women's swimming and diving.
Practice and other athletically related activities at member institution's campuses are permitted in accordance with NCAA Division III regulations as well as institutional and state and local health and safety guidelines. As was decided for the fall season, member institutions continue to have the autonomy to schedule outside competition at their discretion.
NCAA Division III Athletics plays an important role at all of our institutions and the Presidents Council understands the disappointment that comes with this announcement. We will continue to work together to provide meaningful athletic opportunities to support our athletic programs as NCAA, Conference, institutional, state and local health and safety guidelines permit.
The Presidents will continue to plan and discuss the possibility of spring competition.
NEWMAC Presidents Council
Stephen Spinelli Jr., Babson College
David Fithian, Clark University
Lee Pelton, Emerson College
Cynthia Barnhart, MIT
Sonya Stephens, Mount Holyoke College
Kathleen McCartney, Smith College
Mary-Beth Cooper, Springfield College
RADM William Kelly, U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Paula A. Johnson, Wellesley College
Dennis Hanno, Wheaton College
Laurie Leshin, WPI
